How is edema treated?

How is edema treated?

Treatment for edema varies based on the cause, especially if the cause relates to an underlying health condition. For example:

• If lung disease causes edema, such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, your healthcare provider will recommend quitting smoking if you smoke.
• If edema occurs with chronic heart failure, your provider will recommend lifestyle changes to treat your diagnosis by monitoring your weight, fluid intake and salt intake. Your provider might recommend cutting back on the amount of alcohol you drink.
• If edema is a side effect of a medication you are taking, your provider might stop or lower the dosage of your medication to resolve the swelling. Do not stop taking your medication unless your provider tells you to do so.

Treatment to reduce swelling

In addition to treating the underlying cause of edema, there are a few steps you can take to keep fluid from building up in your body:

• When you are sitting or lying down, put a pillow under your legs to keep them elevated above the level of your heart.
• Do not sit or stand for long periods without moving or go on short walks.
• Wear support socks, stockings or sleeves, which put pressure on parts of your body to keep fluids from collecting there. Edema shoes are available for people who experience chronic edema and need adjustable footwear for swelling.
• Reduce the amount of salt in your diet.
• Follow your doctor’s directions for taking medications. Your doctor might want you to take a diuretic (commonly called a "water pill"), which helps your body get rid of excess fluid.